24/05/2026
๐โต ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ฌ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฒ | A Celebration of Faith, Culture, and Gratitude
Yesterday, May 23, 2026, Barangay Igbon, Concepcion, Iloilo once again gathered in celebration of โBIRAY,โ a cherished fluvial procession that honors faith, culture, and the abundant blessings from the sea that continue to sustain the lives of many families in the community.
Rooted in the beliefs and traditions passed down by the ancestors since the early 1960s, BIRAY has long been part of the identity of Barangay Igbon. Celebrated every third week of May during the high tide, this long-standing tradition serves as a thanksgiving for the blessings, protection, and livelihood provided by the sea to the coastal community.
The celebration also began with a Holy Mass attended by residents and devotees, offering prayers of gratitude and guidance before the much-awaited fluvial procession. Following the Mass, numerous pumpboatsโbig and smallโbeautifully decorated and carrying saints sailed together across the waters as part of the procession.
For more than a decade in its present organized form, BIRAY has continued to grow bigger each year, attracting more participants and spectators from different communities. The increasing number of decorated boats joining the procession reflects the peopleโs enduring faith and their support to preserving the traditions inherited from previous generations.
Beyond the colorful display at sea, BIRAY symbolizes the deep connection of the people to their culture, history, and way of life as a fishing community. It is a tradition that continues to unite families and residents in honoring their faith and expressing gratitude for the blessings they receive throughout the years.
The continued success of BIRAY also contributes to the growing tourism and cultural identity of the Municipality of Concepcion. It highlights the unique traditions of the island and coastal communities while showcasing the pride, devotion, and unity of the people of Barangay Igbon.
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